You know that moment when the kitchen is filled with the aroma of onions sizzling in the pan, mingling with the savory scent of smoked sausage? That’s when I know something comforting is on the way. This Black Beans and Rice with Sausage isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a busy weeknight, a plateful of cozy nostalgia that is both hearty and satisfying. The smoky richness pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the beans and rice, creating a dish that feels like home with every bite.

Black Beans and Rice with Sausage

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A comforting one-pot meal featuring black beans, rice, and smoky sausage, perfect for busy weeknights.

Author: amelia-grace
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup black beans (canned or cooked)
1 cup rice (white or brown)
1 pound sausage (smoked or andouille)
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 bell pepper (chopped)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant.
Slice the sausage and add it to the pot, cooking until nicely browned.
Stir in the black beans and rice, ensuring everything is well combined.
Sprinkle in the cumin and paprika, creating an aromatic blend.
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Season with salt and pepper, serve hot, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Notes

For added flavor, try using homemade broth and allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 360
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 60mg

How It All Comes Together

Making this flavorful dish is as easy as pie, and it warms up quickly with just one pot. The combination of the sausage, black beans, and rice creates a simple yet delicious one-dish meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup black beans (canned or cooked)
1 cup rice (white or brown)
1 pound sausage (smoked or andouille)
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 bell pepper (chopped)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic into the mix, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant. This is where the magic starts!
Next, slice up your sausage and add it to the pot, allowing it to cook until nicely browned. You’ll love watching the rich colors deepen as it sizzles.
Now, stir in the black beans and rice, making sure everything is well combined.
Sprinkle in the cumin and paprika, making a beautiful, aromatic blend that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Pour in the broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is perfectly tender. Your patience will pay off!
Finally, season with salt and pepper to your liking, serve it hot, and don’t forget that fresh cilantro garnish for a pop of color and flavor!

Nutritional Snapshot

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 360
Protein: 23g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 10g

Packed with protein and fiber, this dish keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy—just what you need for a cozy dinner.

When to Enjoy It

This Black Beans and Rice with Sausage is perfect for family dinners, casual brunches, or cozy nights in front of the TV. Pair it with a simple green salad and a slice of cornbread for a soul-warming experience. Don’t forget a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade for summer nights.

Smart Storage Tricks

To keep your leftovers fresh, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. You can also freeze portions—just make sure to label them! When you’re ready to enjoy a quick meal, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to loosen it up.

Betty’s Secrets

For an extra depth of flavor, try using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking can improve the texture and meld the flavors beautifully.
If you like a little heat, slice up some jalapeños and sauté them with the veggies.
A squeeze of lime just before serving brightens everything up!

Creative Twists

In the fall, try adding a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist.
During the summer months, toss in some fresh corn for sweetness and crunch.
Experiment with different sausages like chorizo for a spicy kick or a turkey sausage for a lighter version.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use different grains besides rice in the Black Beans and Rice with Sausage? Absolutely! Quinoa or farro are wonderful alternatives that bring a nutty flavor. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian? You bet! Replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth. It’s still satisfying and delicious!

What can I serve on the side with this dish? A fresh, zesty coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad pairs perfectly to bring a burst of color and crunch to the table.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Simply microwave it when you’re ready to enjoy or reheat in a pot on the stove.